This paper deals with the experimental analysis of link tension distribution in a chain type continuously variable transmission. We have developed an ad hoc measuring device constituted by a data-logger that is fixed at the chain and moves with it. The data-logger records the strain data from a strain gauge and stores them in a flash memory card. We have been able to measure the tensile force acting on a single chain link in a wide range of working conditions. Our measurements have shown that an almost perfect linearity (which has a clear theoretical explanation) exists between the clamping force and the link tension distribution. We have also found that the link tension distribution is less sensitive to the torque load, which mainly influences the local slip between the chain and the pulley and hence the time required by the link to cover the entire contact arc. We have also carried out a comparison between theoretical predictions and experimental data. We have found a relatively good agreement that confirms the validity of the theoretical approach.

Some photographs of the GCI chain sample (a) with the modified links, (b) assembled with a strain gauge, (c) equipped with the data-logger and the battery, and (d) the chain mounted on the P811 variator

The link tensile force distribution F as a function of the time t measured during one revolution at τid=0.41 and ωDR=27 rpm at TDN=6 Nm, SDR=12 kN (blue curve in online version of this article), and SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article).

The link tensile force distribution F as a function of the time t measured during one revolution at τid=0.41 and ωDR=27 rpm for TDN=6 Nm and SDR=24 kN (blue curve in online version of this article) and TDN=40 Nm and SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article).

The link tensile force distribution F as a function of the time t measured during one revolution at τid=1 and ωDR=27 rpm for different values of secondary torque and primary clamping force: TDN=20 Nm, SDR=12 kN (blue curve in online verison of this article), TDN=20 Nm, SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article) in (a); TDN=70 Nm, SDR=12 kN (blue curve in online verison of this article), TDN=70 Nm, SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article) in (b)

The link tensile force distribution F as a function of the time t measured during one revolution at τid=1.8 and ωDR=27 rpm for different values of secondary torque and primary clamping force: TDN=8 Nm, SDR=12 kN (blue curve in online version of this article), TDN=8 Nm, SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article) in (a); TDN=40 Nm, SDR=12 kN (blue curve in online version of this article), TDN=40 Nm, SDR=24 kN (red curve in online version of this article) in (b)

The link tensile force distribution F as a function of the time t measured during one revolution at τid=1 and ωDR=27 rpm at TDN=20 Nm and SDR=24 kN evaluated as the mean value of the tensile force measured on both sides of the chain link pattern

The link tensile force distribution. Measured data (reported in blue color in online version of this article) represent the mean value of the tensile load acting on the two opposite edges of a chain pattern, and theoretical predictions are in red color in online version of this article. Data are shown for speed ratio τid=1, SDR=24 kN, and torque load TDN=20 Nm.

The link tensile force distribution. Measured data are reported in blue color and theoretical prediction in red color in online version of this article. Data are shown for speed ratio τid=1, SDR=12 kN, and two values of the torque load (a) TDN=20 Nm and (b) TDN=70 Nm.

The link tensile force distribution. Measured data are reported in blue color, and theoretical prediction are in red color in online version of this article. Data are shown for speed ratio τid=1, SDR=24 kN, and torque load TDN=70 Nm.

The ratio εtot/ε0 as a function of the dimensionless axial coordinate Z. Calculation have been performed for two different lengths of the pin l=24 mm and 30 mm. In accordance with the chain and pulley geometrical data, we have assumed h/[r0J′(θ)]=4.5×108 m−4.

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